The Secret Crush Of A Teenage Girl
I'm usually not a fan of C-dramas, especially if it's an adaptation of Manhua but this one is really good. Some scenes in the drama may be different from the novel+manhua but it still doesn't change the storyline or the mood. The main lead actors really suit the characters. Others say the male lead actor doesn't resemble the Duan Jiaxu but I think he does. And Zhao Lusi matches Sang Zhi a lot, mostly because of her cute nature. She can definitely show how Sang Zhi acted when she was worried by Jiaxu. I have seen many people not want to watch drama simply because of the age gap but honestly, it's only 5 years. The male lead does not fall for her until she's in university. People mistook him as flirting with her when she was younger but he was teasing her as a little sister. Jiaxu's story is told after she's in university and is also the reason why she felt more sympathy for him. Overall, you guys should definitely watch the drama and Manhua!Was this review helpful to you?
DUAN JIAXU IS HOT
Chen Zhe Yuan is handsome!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He's charming, he's sexy af and he had peak rizz in this drama. HE IS THAT GEGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. so watch iti don' t have anything else to say but its a min of 500 characters. so here is this. Blahblahblah duan jiaxu is sexy af he is so hot my brain melted off, I had to call911 cause he was too hot. Sangzhi don’t even know how hot her mans is. Bro is so hot we need him off the planet for climate change, he’s so goddamn handsome that handsome is chen zhe yuan in the dictionary. Bro has so much rizz he charms himself when he looks in the mirror
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This review may contain spoilers
Romance drama!
*This drama is full on ROMANCE, even the comedy is lacking and I can’t compare to Korean drama because this one doesn’t even has the same atmospheric tone like Korean drama, in KDrama where’s there Romance, there’s also a top-notch extra-bonus for the audience to enjoy, this one…. I don’t see, but CDrama can really do well when it comes to historical romance.* I only watch this drama because of the casting of Zen Li and Zhao Lusi collaborate again after LOVE LIKE THE GALAXY drama (also mother-daughter character) plus Zen Li so gorgeous (too bad her appearance in the drama so little to be seen), I love her… apart from that I’m not a fan of a teenage girl and a mid-20s guy love story…
* Zhao Lu Si star power worth every shot of her acting while Chen Zhe Yuan still lacking his skill especially emotional moments.
* it’s a very intimate relationship between a 19years old girl and a 26 years old guy already sound very fishy but totally popular in today’s society (also in the drama he’s 24 when he started having feelings for FL who is 17years)
*The death of his mother was not shown (only tell)
*The ML relationship with Jiang Ying was never shown what really happened between them that made the result that she attached to him, as we can see in the flash back she hate and despise him then what’s give?
* The small envelope the FL insert inside his wallet was never mentioned nor shown again
* The plot/storyline so realistic and relatable indeed but the only thing that’s so exaggerate and very unrealistic was the fact that the FL instantly became very matured & responsible when she became 19years old with a mind of a 30 years old woman, she maybe change because of ML charismatic, kind, humble and modesty character but do you really think a spoiled girl from a rich family can easily change because of love? that’s fairy tale story but anyway it’s a C-drama so what’s not impossible.
*The supporting characters (ML/FL friends) was only there as an extended part or to helped moved the plot forward in the drama apart from that it seems no one cares what’s going on in their decision moment & their development in life, they are like NPC (just like the ML gaming job LOL).
In conclusion, this drama worth watching it, it shows that Love can happen to anyone doesn't matter how old are you and it can make a person so crazy especially in decision making and confidence.
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A Love That Cannot Be Replaced❤️❤️
I don’t even know how many times I’ve rewatched Hidden Love, but every single time, it feels like I’m falling in love all over again. This drama isn’t just a story — it’s a dreamland I go back to whenever I need comfort, warmth, or hope.Duan Jiaxu and Sang zhi will always have a special place in my heart. Their love is so tender, patient, and pure , the kind of romance that makes you really believe in destiny. I don’t see them as actors; to me, they are Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu. The way he protects her, and the way she grows into herself while still holding onto that innocent love, it just feels magical. And Sang Yan — his humor and brotherly energy bring so much life to the story. The whole cast feels like family, and I honestly can’t imagine anyone else in these roles.
The OST is amazing too. Every song fits the story so perfectly. Sometimes I just play the music and I’m right back in that world.
Hidden Love is irreplaceable for me. No matter how many new dramas I watch, nothing will ever take away what Sang Zhi, Duan Jiaxu, Sang Yan, and the rest of the cast gave me. They created a golden love story that will always stay at the top of my heart.
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On Perpetual Replay
One of my all-time favorites—I’ve rewatched it four times. For K-dramas, it’s Hospital Playlist that sits on my eternal watchlist— for C-dramas, this one takes that spot.Absolutely loved Zhao Lusi—she was brilliant. Really enjoyed Victor Ma’s characterization of Sang Yan, and I loved the brother-sister dynamic with Sang Zhi. I also loved how they humanized Jiaxu, making him paradoxical and real rather than perfect: innocent-looking but sly, naughty with just the right amount of kink— even lying to his best friend for his own gain. The plot is refreshingly realistic, far from typical tropes.
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best drama of 2023
I loved this drama I rewatch so many times on Netflix
Dream is to see them together again in a drama
On 12 episodes. Don't find it entertaining so stopped. I like Xu Kai and Esther and Wan Peng but it is boring
Xu Kai is very funny and Esther also very good to watch but it could be that I haven't watched the other dramas in the series struggling understanding the plot. I have not played the games so could be a reason. I am watching Part 4 which have also stopped watching but liked that drama more ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
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The only thing that really bothered me was the beginning, where they cast a younger version of the female lead but not of the male lead. The age difference between them was 5 years, but it felt more like at least 10.
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Chen Zheyuan and Zhao Lusi literally ATE their roles <3
Broooo this show has had me kicking my feet the whole time 😭 like why was it actually SO CUTE?? Duan Jiaxu was out here being the most perfect man alive, literal green flag behaviour every episode. And Sang Zhi?? My girl carried the entire soft-girl aesthetic, she was adorable without being annoying. The plot is kinda simple but in the best way it’s literally just pure vibes, sweet moments, and that slow burn that makes you wanna scream at your screen. And the chemistry?? HELLOOOOO. Every time they looked at each other I swear the air changed. Not even gonna lie, some scenes were so fluffy I had to pause just to process. And the OST?? hits actually too hard. Overall i would say that its a 10/10 comfort show. Makes you believe men like that exist (they don’t, but we can dream). Chen Zheyuan and Zhao Lusi did amazing at their characters <3 Like actually, they understood the assignment SO WELL. Chen Zheyuan was the perfect mix of soft, warm, protective boyfriend energy every look he gave?? instant heart attack. And Zhao Lusi brought that cute-but-strong energy that made Sang Zhi feel real, not cringey. Their chemistry was insane, like you could FEEL it through the screen. They made every tiny moment even just standing next to each other feel like a whole scene. Honestly, without them the show wouldn’t hit the same. They carried in the most respectful way possible <3Was this review helpful to you?
interesting plot, sweet chemistry, but inconsistent
I understand the hype around this drama just from watching the first few episodes. It definitely has a unique essence in its plot of including age gap in the story. I initially found the series cute, although, for me, it didn't maintain its consistency. Some parts felt a bit boring and slow. There were also scenes that were overly sweet, to the point where they felt forced. That said, I have to commend the production for casting Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan as Sang Zhi and Duan Jiaxu because their chemistry is excellent. Overall, Hidden Love is a great drama.Was this review helpful to you?
Perfection
Things I adored1 The ML. I can't say it enough but he must be one of the rare actors who can play with my emotions that much. Whether he's sad or playful, serious or funny he gives me all the feelings with his eyes. He's gorgeous, that's a given, but there are other very handsome actors whom I don't care at all. He is like a walking green flag and I adore green flags when it comes to romance. I've seen him in Our secret as well, and loved him. What can I say? I ADORE him.
2 The premise. I'm a lover of high school dramas that spill in university. But this one was particularly great. They weren't together at school yet it felt like they grew up together.
3 Loved their relationship and how protective he was of her. So many swooning moments. But it wasn't only him. She protected him as well and that was great to watch.
4 The relationship between the FL and her brother. So fun, so sweet, so moving. Little demon became my favorite phrase.
5 The parents. Her mom was gorgeous and she played her role to perfection. I was so happy with the relationship the parents had with their children. It was great to watch them grow up in such a loving family.
6 The brother of the FL. At first I thought I'd dislike him. I didn't know what to expect. Then I've seen how he treated his sister and I adored him. The actors played their relationship so beautifully, so naturally. I loved his friendship with the ML as well. And of course how understanding and how protective he was with both o them after they got together. Such a great character and the actor did a stellar job to make me love him.
7 The young actress who played the young FL. Such a great actress and so fun to watch her. I was looking eagerly for the scenes she appeared. Such a talented person. I hope she has a great career.
8 Every single moment they showed each other how they felt. The milk, the hidden star messages, the airport scene... So many wonderful, lovely scenes. I think this is the only series out of maybe 50 I've seen that I'm sure I'll rewatch one day.
8 The whole drama. If I had to label it I could never give it less than 10 even with some imperfections.
Things I loved
1 The FL. Why isn't she with the rest of the cast in the "Adored" list. Well, I feel like I'm not being fair, but I have to distinguish those I adored and although I loved her I don't care to see her in other series, so that tells me that she lacked something. I went directly to look the other series the ML lead was in, but I didn't do the same for her. That said, I loved her, no doubt about that. She did a wonderful job to convey all the despair and the romantic feelings she had for him and I wanted to hug her so much when she suffered. I loved how genuine her feelings were and the actress conveyed these in a great manner.
2 The ML mother. She was a beautiful person and the actress made me feel for her. I loved how human she was about her feelings while trying to protect her son.
3 The friends of the ML and the brother. They were funny and adorable.
Things I liked
1 The university period. There were parts I loved but others not so much so that's why I putt this in the I liked things list. I could have done without the whole "having to care about his father" story.
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Hidden love... ღ
It's my favorite series. Everything about it was amazing: the actors, the chemistry between them, and the soundtrack—it's one of my all-time favorites. I've probably rewatched it more than five times. Is that crazy? Yes, I know, but I love it in a different way.Chao Lucy is truly wonderful and Chen Zi, it's a green flag, pastures, And affectionate Whenever I see her or a picture of them, I smile, and I think the scene that haunts me most is when I traveled Sang Chi to Duan Jiashu and they met at the airport after a long absence ღ, ღ, ღ, ღ, ღ, ღ, ღ,I think it's my favorite scene...!!!Was this review helpful to you?
This review may contain spoilers
A sweet, nostalgic slow-burn that makes your heart flutter ?
If you're looking for a wholesome, heartwarming romance that beautifully captures the innocence of first love and the gentle evolution into adulthood, then Hidden Love is for you. What starts as a schoolgirl’s secret admiration slowly grows into a mature, mutual love as they reconnect years later.✅ Sang Zhi & Duan Jiaxu’s Chemistry: Zhao Lusi and Chen Zheyuan absolutely nailed their roles. Their chemistry is natural, soft, and utterly swoon-worthy. Whether it’s stolen glances, playful teasing, or emotional confessions—every scene between them feels authentic and intimate.
✅ Slow-Burn Romance Done Right: The pacing might be slow for some, but I loved how the drama took its time to show Sang Zhi growing up (honestly, appreciated this the most in the entire show), from an impulsive teen to a young woman who knows what she wants. Watching Duan Jiaxu slowly open his heart to her felt incredibly rewarding.
✅ Cinematography & OST: Visually, the drama is warm and cozy, using soft lighting and pastel tones that perfectly reflect its coming-of-age theme. The soundtrack (with the exception of one song lyric ~ you know one that goes "I can taste you while i am breathing...eck!"), including Zhao Lusi’s own track, adds to the emotional weight of key scenes and enhances the overall vibe.
I would've loved more development for the supporting cast, especially Sang Yan (the brother) whose relationship with Sang Zhi had so much potential for meaningful sibling bonding but i was still very pleased with what they gave us in the end.
Overall Thoughts 🌸
Hidden Love isn’t a rollercoaster of plot twists or heavy melodrama—it's a warm blanket of nostalgia and quiet emotion. It celebrates the small moments of love: waiting at the school gate, a late-night text, a hand held a little too long. It’s those gentle beats that make this drama unforgettable.
If you’re a fan of slice-of-life romance, with amazing lead chemistry and a satisfying emotional payoff, Hidden Love is one to put at the top of your watchlist.
🌸🌸Rewatch Value: High - I HAVE SEEN IT COUNTLESS TIMES...NO JOKE!🌸🌸
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